§ Mr. McCuskerasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which of the non-departmental public bodies engaged in countryside recreation, sport, the arts and tourism are under review in Northern Ireland; why these have been chosen; and what arrangements he is making to ensure that these reviews are impartial.
§ Mr. Humphrey AtkinsThe recent independent review under the chairmanship of Sir Leo Pliatzky has examined all non-departmental public bodies in Northern Ireland to ensure that they operate with maximum efficiency and economy.
Following this review, I decided that the Lagan Valley regional park committee should be merged with the Ulster countryside committee, and that a comprehensive, further review should be made of the Sports Council. This is under way.
The functions of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board is also being examined in the light of the consultant's report on the potential for development of the Northern Ireland tourist industry.